Can You Eat Potatoes When Pregnant?
Reviewed against NHS foods-to-avoid guidance · Updated September 2026
Nutritional data sourced from USDA FoodData Central and Public Health England. Always consult a registered dietitian for personal dietary advice.
Yes — Potatoes is safe to eat during pregnancy and can be enjoyed as part of a healthy, balanced diet.
Why is potatoes safe in pregnancy?
Potatoes is safe throughout pregnancy. It does not appear on the NHS list of foods to avoid or limit, so you can eat it freely. As with all fresh produce and prepared foods, normal food hygiene applies: wash fruit and vegetables, keep chilled foods cold, and eat within use-by dates.
You can also check the calorie content of potatoes alongside its safety information. Also check medication safety during pregnancy if you're managing any conditions.
The exception
Don't eat green or sprouting potatoes (pregnant or not) — the green parts contain solanine. Cut away small sprouts and any green flesh, or discard heavily affected potatoes.
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Pregnancy essentials
Pregnancy multivitamin
The NHS advises 400µg of folic acid daily — easiest as one daily tablet.
Check Price →Pregnancy food guide
A paper reference for the fridge door — no more mid-supermarket googling.
Check Price →Digital food thermometer
Cooked through means 75°C in the middle — a probe ends the guesswork.
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Want to know exactly what's in your food? Our ingredient checker covers E-numbers, allergens and vegan status.
More pregnancy essentials
Baby-safe food thermometer
Useful for pregnancy cooking checks and later for baby food.
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Common questions
Can I eat potatoes in the first trimester?
Yes — Potatoes is safe at every stage of pregnancy, including the first trimester.
Is a small amount of potatoes OK during pregnancy?
There is no safety limit on Potatoes during pregnancy — enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.
I accidentally ate potatoes while pregnant — what should I do?
No action needed — Potatoes is safe during pregnancy.
Is cooked potatoes safe in pregnancy?
Yes — Potatoes is safe during pregnancy whether cooked or raw (where it's normally eaten raw).
Related answers
Primary source: NHS foods-to-avoid guidance.
The information on 247foodcheck.com is compiled from official public guidance (NHS, Food Standards Agency, USDA/FDA FoodKeeper) and is provided for general information only. It is not medical advice and does not replace guidance from your midwife, GP, health visitor or other qualified professional. When in doubt, throw it out — and if you feel unwell after eating something, contact NHS 111 or your doctor.